Does it Get Better than This?

(pictures added 9/14/08)

This will be really rough. Hopefully, when I get back, I will be able to sit down and do justice to it all. And you are missing the pictures... which truth be told Amy's camera is ten times better than mine so the wait for her pictures will be worth it. We had a lazy start to the day Amy was recovering from finishing working night shifts and I recovering from our ride in. The morning was filled with butterflies and so many different kinds of beautiful birds. Everyone here is really friendly and I love the staff here. I will have an excellent memory to associate with the name Diego now.

Our tour only had 6 people to fly through the canopy with. Ulises our guide said there was 60 the day before. So glad I didn't have to wait for 60 people.

Our ATV ride was actually a tracker pulling us behind but we didn't mind... we were in the rain forest and it is beautiful.

Giddy as can be, we lost no time flirting with the staff. And by we I of course mean Amy. But I will say I think Caler started it... and finished it by saying she would improve in her spanish if she stayed and married him. I knew that blond hair and blue eyes of her would work wonders here. But alas nothing free yet...
I personally liked Ulises best, he was cute as can be, kind, fun, and had an obvious responsible side to him. Me and responsiblity... Amy and I are so opposite. For example... after our instruction period for safety etc Ulises asked what our job was. I replied to not manipulate the equipment because that is what he had just stressed. Amy said... to enjoy/have fun! Which I think was the answer he was looking for. And that about sums us all up.
okay back to the rain forest.
Loved our hike through the forest to get to the beginning of the canopy zip line. Amy liked the pick up line from Caler. I sadly won't be with you on your canopy tour but it would be my honor to help you into your harness and gear. Which was promptly met by Amy's I bet you would. That is what led to the whole proposal.
And then the zip line... of course it started to rain right before our first zip. A big thank you and kudos to Nate Walsh. The recommendation/mockery that encouraged me to buy my Marmot rain jacket fabulous. It poured on us and while everyone else, including the guides, were soaked through and freezing with goose bumps, for the first time ever I wasn't. And the Keen sandals... the poor family with us had tennis shoes and socks on... how miserable... wet shoes and socks. I haven't thought once about my feet, Keens work for everything. One shoe fits all!!
Besides the rain stinging and sometimes maring our view as we flew through the rain forest I was enamored by the rain. I mean we are in the rain forest... it was perfect. And the view, I don't have the words for it. At one point we are at least 4 stories high in the air, all around is jungle and when you look down and see the leaves as big as you are and a waterfall and small river rushing over rocks through openings of the trees... and you are flying through the air... wind in the face... cute Ticos taking care of you... really the only bad part was how bad I was at slowing myself down causing a slighty swollen pinky and bruised knee from 2 impactful endings. There were 8 different zip lines in total. The rain lasted for 1/2 or 2/3 of the time during which we heard an excellent clap of thunder really close. Only to discover from our guides it was the volcano! Can it get any better. The constant smoke pouring out the top really is a sight to behold.
The horses were waiting for us at the end to take us to the traditional village... Capi Capi! How awkward was that? To great you make a fist with your right hand and tap it on the left shoulder of whom you are greeting and say capi capi. They are for real, the chief was there, but it is a guilt you to buy our crafts stop. But I learned that the juguar is a symbol for intelligence, Tucan for feminine beauty, macaw for true love and fidelity, and the butterfly for love and peace. I got my horse to run for just a second on the way back, mostly it trotted when I tried to go faster and walked at any chance. Lazy tourist horse. Fun nonetheless. And then it was all over. Time to say good bye to our Tico friends and go back to the hostel.
Lunch/dinner at the Lava Lounge excellent Tuna stake!! Amy bought some exotic fruit there from a street vendor mamon chinos. I took a Picture of him with Amy. The first thing I thought was wow, he looks high and second thought, he looks like a vampire. Sure enough we find out he is the local crack addict, but the fruit was excellent. Fun playing with our cameras at the restaurant... a couple actually turned out pretty good. I bought the braclett I liked last night, after looking at all the shops and finding it to be the best. Money for souveniours is limited... it is all going to activities. Anyone expecting a trinket from Costa Rica I probably won't deliver, prices are not cheap and I am already sick about how much we are spending at our first stop. Granted... this is the most expensive stop, but yikes!! I don't spend money like this! But when will I be here again? Although they did say they are in need of a yoga teacher in this town...
So tomorrow we are going to catholic church at 9am, then horseback ride to the La fortuna waterfall and swim. Then as soon as we get back it is to Tabacon hot springs and volcano tour! I really hope it is clear so we can see the red glowing lava flowing down the mountain. The lava flow changes directions and it is on the opposite side of the mountain from where we are facing. But tonight, tonight is dancing! We are going to the discoteque. We are recuiting some people from the hostel to go with us and the receptionist is now our friend and she is coming too. She is also coming with us to the waterfall. Nice to have a local around. And just maybe, we can talk the owner Diego to come. The receptionist said we will celebrate my birthday while we are there... she heard that part of this trip is the beginning festivities for my 30th.
So all is well and then some. No ability to spell check and no time to read through so I apologize for more errs than usual.

Hasta Luego!

Heather

PS I love using the little Spanish I know...

Costa Rica Pura Vida

Just a note to all to let you know I am alive. We are in La Fortuna next the Arenal Volcano. Carlos our driver did an excellent job of navigating the windy mountainous roads- I would describe him as fearless. Amy decided that booking a driver and hostel for our first stop wasn´t a bad idea. Perfect for me... get settled in the country and then play along. The scenery is spectacular- so green and amazingly enough... tropical. I am loving being back in the humidity. At least in Arenal it isn´t that humid, just enough to know you´re not in Kanas anymore. I love how all the restaurants are "outside". There are canopies but few walls. Perpetual summer... The hostel is the nicest I´ve ever seen. Super friendly, safe, and complete with internet, pool, and resaurant. Amy and I have already wandered in town and found too many places we would like to spend our money. Tomorrow´s agenda- tackle the rain forest. Zip line through the canopy, horseback ride in the rain forest and then stop at a butterfly and frog reserve. Not too shabby, eh? Love you all!

Heather

Costa Rica Revisted... and some random things

Somewhere between writing my blog last night, flipping around in bed from stress dreams to now -I have managed to arrive! I've let it go and I'm just excited to go. No matter what- it is going to be fun. I think the tipping of the scale came from the realization I had at work... I won't be here on Friday... sealed the deal. And better even than not being at work-- I'm not going to be in the country!





I have decided to take some cooking classes! I am so excited- I have finally been able to admit to myself - I really like to cook- shockingly enough. I may not like dealing with feeding myself 3+ times a day, but I do like to create in the kitchen- even if it is only recreating a tried and true recipe. I want to know more! So... I did a little research and found somewhere that has one night cooking classes throughout every month. I want to pick one once a month... I am brought to life with the idea of learning something again. When I graduated with my Masters I thought I would never want to go back to school-- ever. 7 years of college with little break. I was fried. My dad warned me I would change my mind... Don't you hate it when your parents are right. 5 short years and I am pining to go back and be learning again. I'm starting with cooking classes and then we'll see what else I can fit it.

Look at my new toy!!!

I admit it was somewhat of an impulse buy. The girls asked me to go shopping with them- I had no plans to come home with this beautiful piece... but for $70!! How could I say no? I know, I need to polish of the finger prints... But it complete the transformation of our front room. No more ugly cart holding our movies!


Need to write a blog about Curtis Matsko- but not sure yet what to write- it is the oddest of tales- already. Okay- it is a typical Heather tale -already. But apparently I enjoy mixing things up a little. For all my family who may be excited about me mentioning a new male in my life- it's not that kinda story. No- really... it's not that kinda story. I really do have a random life. What are the odds-- Curtis taught Mitch McKamey- as in Kate McKamey's (my old roommate) husband to swim. Doesn't everyone need a wealthy, writer, yogi, and traveling man as a friend? Here are a couple of my favorite lines of his. Some poetic- some just made me laugh and some help explain "the situation". Sorry Curtis- I didn't ask- I know you will be reading this. But I did warn you I was going to steal some of your lines...

The Days Run Away Like Wild Horses Over the Hills

The Dreams Slipped from my Pocket and Rolled Quickly from Grasp then Sight

But expectations, mine and others, like to ride heavy and loose on my back like a drunken monkey...

It is 4:22 AM and I just finished my book and your blog... Yep.... I read the whole thing......After the the "Matchmaker can't make me a match" cause I am a shriveled up 30 year old...BUT I will survive....... it became interesting..... and normal in a fun way....

I must apologize if anything I wrote seemed as if I was throwing lawn darts at the yellow plastic rings of your religion... that would be cheap, rude and outrageously ignorant....

...a culture that would make an educated, driven, intelligent young Dancing Freak feel bad that she has lived a great life, has great friends, has learned about her true self and true feelings and has the talent and experience to do whatever she wants in this amazing world we have that surrounds us.... a world right out our door if we dare to walk openingly into it..... on a nice fall day


but just as Alice went funky after that tricky fall, I am a tad dizzy after my McOmber blog reads....Ok... I have to get off your blog.... I do not drink or do drugs but reading your blog has my brain doing loops .... like dipping my grey matter in butter and paint thinner....

So I am bored and writing to someone whom I do not know..... Still don't know why..... Oh well, I'll just play through..... Don't worry... I "ain't a courtin" you.... no reason for the police to be involved....

The Drunken Sock Monkey Kept Eyeing Him as He Wrote Her Yet Again

The Olympics are so inspirational..... they make me feel my past actions have been somewhat lazy but that anything can happen in the future.... Anything... I like that......


Hope you don't mind my ramblings.... they are not structured like your email... you actually went point for point and answered... how linear of you.....

Chow Maine: Population 3

That's all folks!!!!!

Costa Rica... 5 days and counting

You would think a blog about my upcoming trip to Costa Rica would be easy to write about. Already I have started and erased this entry several times. This in and of itself is telling. I am ready to leave- have a change and rejuvenate. I have found my work becomes very burdensome and I need to get away from it every 4-6 months. I hate the health care system as is... never mind- this is a blog about Costa Rica remember! Costa Rica is supposed to be incredible- a naturalist's heaven and an outdoor adventurer's candy store. The itinerary is enough to make one giddy. I just really hope everything goes according to plan- or better. Traveling with no reservations, I admit, makes me a little nervous- I prefer my ends a little more neatly tied than Amy. Sometimes it's okay to be ripped off a little to know there is bed or bus with your name on it. So needless to say, my apprehension is more- I have no idea what I'm getting myself into because nothing is really set. I kinda like more structure. But the non-structure is the part that excites Amy. We are two birds of a very different feather. She is extremely yellow and I am extremely blue. Last night she flirted me a free ice cream cone... I actually think we will make excellent travel companions(crossing my fingers)- she will make sure we have a good time and I will make sure we don't end up in jail or worse. What I do know is this trip will be a growing experience for me. Certainly breaking me out of my comfort zone. And sometimes knowing you are entering a growing experience can damper the excitement you should have. I know I'll be excited once I get there- (once we find a place to sleep...) Viva Costa Rica!!! I'm sure I'll have tales to tell if I make it back!!

There are many areas in my life lacking. My readiness to bear testimony of the light, truth, and love I have of and have found in gospel of Jesus Christ is one of them. My personal testimony, which is forever expanding, has come through my personal experiences and feelings. I cannot mind meld with people to enable them to understand and I cannot articulate my spiritual journey to the convincing of man. Truly the wisdom of God and the wisdom of man are not the same. And, the wisdom of God seems foolish to man. I suppose I still have yet to progress far enough to not care about how people think of me. It may be I am not yet willing to look foolish for God. And I think... who am I to tell you there is a better life for you? I believe I take my knowledge of the plan of salvation for granted. I have always had it and my mind does not always grasp that I know things others have no conceivable notion of. I was reminded of this this week and found myself in great awe and gratitude for my life and my testimony. Who am I to deny others the opportunity to know what I know? But these are tricky waters to navigate. I hope I can obtain enough light in my life that others will want to know more about me- leading them to know Christ.

I have felt the hand of God in my life, as well as His spirit teaching me, guiding me, and bearing witness to me of His existence too many times to deny it. I have felt His love and mercy-- The tenderness and care He takes toward His children. I am grateful for the restoration of the gospel. Satan will mar and twist anything of light. So much was lost and damaged... I am grateful for a prophet here and now- because even with the restoration we are good at damaging the truth... I am grateful to know I have a life purpose and where to go to receive direction for that purpose. I know the gospel is the plan of happiness.

Content

Some days I wish I was a writer. A real writer. Someone able to transform the everyday into poetry and provide as sense of purpose, understanding and meaning. Someone witty and clever able to create new analogies evoking emotion. Writing was always my biggest fear in school. I would sit in front of a computer for hours, repeatedly, to write what it would take one of my roommates a half an hour. Then, I was lucky to get a B. I absolutely dreaded any form of written assignment. All these things considered, I am surprised at how much I enjoy sitting alone at my keyboard congealing thoughts that run through my head. The change of pace in my mind as my thoughts are transformed into words and sentences. There is a calm that settles. And although I may not have the most magical of minds, I am content. Content to be who I am and that be good enough to present to anyone who cares to tread across my pages.

The Invitation

The Invitation

by: Oriah Mountain Dreamer

I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me what you do for a living.

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dreams, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow. If you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own; if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, be realistic, or to remember the limitation of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true, I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself. If you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul.

I want to know if you can be faithful and therefore trustworthy. I want to know if you can see beauty, even when it is not pretty every day, and if you can source your life from God's presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours or mine, and still stand on the edge of a lake and shout to the sliver of the full moon, "YES!"

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up after a night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done for the children.

It doesn't interest me who you are or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you from the inside when all else falls away. I want to know if you can be alone with yourself, and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

It's all about family

Once again the Paul McOmber family is off for their next adventure. Destination- South Africa. Because Moscow Russia, Kuwait, Beijing China, and Armenia just weren't enough... Every 2-3 years my Uncle is stationed at a different US Embassy medical clinic as a PA. Friday night we had a family party- gathering as many McOmber's as could make it- to again sent them off with all our love.

I told Paul he needed to talk to the government so I could come and live with him and work at his Medical Clinic- all I ask is to forgive my pesky student loan... Wouldn't that be fantastic? Hang out with the giraffes for a few months or more...

Grandma Mac with 2 of her great grandchildren Heather Kenna and Clara Rae

Grandma has always had a special place in her heart for the babies.

How many McOmber's can you fit into one room and one photo while they watch the Olympics? And I was missing some who were hiding out upstairs...

Favorite Cousins...

(I know, Niki looks a lot cuter than me)

I truly love my family- what a gift in this world!! There are not many people in this world I like to be with as much as them.

Ambivalent?

Have you ever had to - for your own best interest and well-being- convince yourself that you don't want or like something anymore? To take something you were almost addicted to and become ambivalent towards it? Is it really possible? Or does the principle: out of sight out of mind need to be vigilantly adhered to? I am sure time takes care of most things- but... Recently I had done an award winning job of convincing myself I had become quite ambivalent... only to discover upon confrontation, I was not nearly as ambivalent as I had thought.

What's Coming?

I start to worry when too many good things start coming together at the same time. I should sit back and enjoy-but I can't help noticing the red flags that start to wave in the background. Whenever so many opportunities have come together in the past, it is an omen indicating trouble is ahead. God giving a plethora of good to buoy up against the storm. Not to be pessimistic, but I wonder, what's coming? The opposite of the silver lining in the clouds. Don't get me wrong- I'm enjoying the turn of events and the line up of opportunities. Although, my sleep is getting the shaft... But just for the record-I am enjoying the now despite the red flags and letting the future fend for itself.

Writing Philosophy

After some feedback from the "My Ensign Article" blog I feel a need to clarify. I have no intention of trying to publish what I wrote. I may try to submit an article at some point... maybe... If I find when I boil it all down there is something of value and with enough encouragement- I might attempt to write something appropriate for submission. This blog- or any blog I write for that matter- is my personal processing. It's where I "vomit" (for lack of a better term) all the thoughts for good or evil on the page. Then I can look objectively at them and understand myself and the topic better. I attempt to be as honest as possible and not censor too much. I find this enhances my personal clarity. I suppose I would rather say too much than not enough (generally). I would rather truly understand the issue and get to the heart of something than dance on the surface. I believe there are things you can only achieve by becoming vulnerable and taking risks. I try to not only write with this philosophy but live it as well. So if you have concerns- rest assured- I only write to better understand myself.

My Ensign Article

Note... After stepping away from this blog I have ntcied a couple of things. The words below reflect partially on how I feel. My thoughts and impressions on the subject ebb and flow through the days... It is not constant...


Blame this one on Emily. After several disgruntled comments I made about the August Ensign's articles on being single, Emily said (more or less) "well, if you don't like them, why don't you write one." I couldn't get that thought out of my head- so tonight - instead of my laundry list of things I need to do- I wrote. I realize it's a little rough- editing necessary. But when have I posted a truly polished blog? Don't worry- I realize it isn't Ensign appropriate- but I am considering doctoring it up a little and sending in a more "user friendly" version. Who would have thought?




I am the definition of the single Mormon cliché. The cliché that begins with the assurance I had of my being married between the ages 21 and 24. No doubt. But just in case, 25 was a fall back plan. All of my friends when I was that age managed- but me. I am a BYU alumni, 30, and still single. How much more cliché can you get? I have a master’s degree, a successful career, traveled around the world and will continue to travel. But sometimes I am left wondering, what now? What more can/should I do?

I was taught by many influences, marriage is the pinnacle of life. Or- the ultimate success in life (at least the beginning of it). The rite of passage leading from one stage of eternity to the next. The key to my entire future that is not to be delayed, but sought after. In addition, Mormon culture adds a healthy dose of implications stating "the right time is your early to mid-twenties and if you fail at marriage- you have failed in life". Being 30 and single I have, in some eyes, failed. I am amazed at the assumptions on my character and actions made when the details of my marriage statuse are brought to light. I have, apparently, not prayed, or fasted, nor gone to the temple enough. Or, I am too picky, not flirty, playing too much, or just not trying. These are my only options and the accusations presented to me by people who, may have good intentions, but simply don’t understand.

The truth is- marriage is a rite of passage and the ultimate success of this portion of eternity- not this life. In order for God’s purposes to be fulfilled, the majority will marry in this life. And, the majority will marry in a timely manner to multiply and replenish the earth-but not all. The truth is- marriage is one of the best ways to learn, grow and progress- but not the only way. The truth is-everyone has a different timeline and purpose in life resulting in different paths- even ones that stray from what is considered "the best". I, as an individual, have a different "best case scenario" than anyone else. The truth also is- God created us with a deep, inherent, righteous desire to have a companion in life and nothing else can fill it. The truth is- being single hurts.


In all the reading I have done about being single in the church- very little is said to address the actual hurt created by the God given longing to be united, sharing life and its experiences with someone you love in marriage. I have been frustrated reading the advice given to singles in The Ensign, etc because I have done everything suggested- now what? Tell me something more because this isn’t enough. Being single in the church is so much more and is not that easy. Over the years, out of necessity, I have learned some on how to deal with "the single dilemma" and I offer up a few of these thoughts.

Ways to Help with "The Single Dilemma"

Basics
1. Start out with the counsel given in the Ensigns (ex. Aug 2008)- If you haven’t gotten that far- get there. It is important.
2. Nothing can fill the void except the "right person" (which is no excuse to turn away potential and as we have been counseled, could be one of many different people). It’s a bigger mess if you force a puzzle piece that doesn’t fit.

Taking it a Step Further
3. Rely on God to give strength, comfort, and patience in the manner. But don’t expect God to take the desire, hurt or loneliness away. He may ease it for a season- but it is an important driving force to motivate us to do what we need to do to be married.
4. Seek to know from the Lord if you are following the right path for you. If you’re not, get on it. If you are, trust in the timing of the Lord. Take comfort in the knowledge that you are where you are supposed to be.

Most Importantly (for me)
5. Study hope- we are to have Ultimate Hope. Ultimate hope overcomes everything because Ultimate hope is hope in Christ and ALL His promises. Ultimate hope includes faith that all of God’s promises will be fulfilled and they are as sweet and wonderful when they do come as if it was now. Without ultimate hope even the temple is a difficult place to be when you are single. I believe, Joy "in the mean time", is only possible through hope. Add a dose of faith and charity and you may be surprised at how good life becomes.

Finally
6. Realize that some days are better than others and that’s okay. When you reach a bump in the road apply the counsel of Pres. Hinckley- Get on your knees, pray to the Lord- then get up and do something.

The process of managing life as a single member of the church and all "that" implies is individual. Seeking the counsel of the Lord in prayer, fasting, feasting on the word, and priesthood blessings is invaluable. Single wards are wonderful support groups but they come to an end when you become "too old". This is when your foundation of hope in Christ becomes even more vital.

Life is never what you expect and time passes without your permission. I wasn’t asked if I wanted to be single at 30- it just is and I accept that. I was however, asked if I was willing to accept and follow Christ. Following Christ is the ultimate goal of this life. Living worthy to return to Christ is the pinnacle success I can achieve. These are my goals and my measures for a successful life.

The Unraveling of Self

I wonder if I will live long enough to learn everything about myself. Is it not amazing, the layers of self we discover as we encounter new circumstances, experiences, juggle time, and proceed through life? This itself bears witness to me of the eternal nature of the soul and the plan of salvation. If I was a blank slate at birth, how could there be so much to discover? The only way for me to understand this "unraveling of self" I experience throughout life is through the concept of premortality. Heaven- where I lived, learned, grew and became before I was born. All of that is still a part of me. However, with the veil covering my memory, it is in the process of life I discover who I am. All this personal philosophy and pondering emerged because once again, I am discovering something about myself...

Note to Self- don't forget to sign out

I was blogging at my brother Tim's house tonight... He was the one "stealing" the computer away from me (I was on his computer). Apparently, in my rush to finish, I failed to sign out and left his house. The beautiful pink colors and "I love Tim" blog are the results of my carelessness.
Thanks for being kind- you could have done much worse!

I love Tim

have i ever told you about by brother...
just check the title that's all you need to know!!

All's Well that Ends Well

Tubing down the Provo River was the high adventure summer activity for the weekend. I had never done it before. Provo is no "lazy river"...






Still smiling!! After lost sunglasses, lost flip flops, two girls with possible broken toes, a bleeding knee, lacerated toes, and frozen hands we still had fun. No river can conquer us!

Once again I learned that I cannot maintain body heat. Despite the 90 degree temp outside, when I got out of the river I realized I could hardly move my hands- frozen from paddling with them. the river is - chilly. I had painful pins and needles while they defrosted. How pathetic! But, I will take frozen hands over the battle wounds and loses the other two faced. They struggled a little bit to keep in the middle...



Merely a flesh wound...



After tubing it was a day with family! Finally, we all got together! Siblings et al- including the latest edition Clara Rae! We have waited a long time for her! The two babies loved to play together. Tim and Andrea had a new glow- First time Aunt and Uncles.





All Natural Aunt and baby Clara

The computer is being taking away from me... will have to finish this later. Look for more pictures soon!